Birmingham City legend Trevor Francis who underwent heart surgery on Friday could be released from hospital as early as today according to his son.

Francis, 57, the UK’s first £1 million footballer, was taken to Heartlands Hospital late on Friday night after suffering chest pains at his home in Solihull.

Medics feared that he had suffered a heart attack, and he underwent cardiac surgery to fit a tube – called a stent – which stops arteries or other blood vessels from narrowing and restricting blood flow.

The surgical procedure is the same operation that Prince Phillip underwent just before Christmas.

Last night Francis, who won 52 England caps, scoring 12 goals, was said to be in a stable condition with his wife Helen, who has had her own health battle with breast cancer, and son James at his bedside.

Francis, who will be 58 on Thursday, has said in a statement that he and his family had been deeply moved by the support he had received.

Speaking from his home in Spain, Matthew Francis said: “It’s a massive shock to everyone that it has happened to him. He is such a healthy guy and he has such a healthy lifestyle.

“Dad wasn’t too good on Friday but thankfully he is a lot better now and should be home on Monday or Tuesday.

“The surgeon did the operation and everything went well. A big thank you to Heartlands. The level of service has been really good.”

Fans have poured onto football forums and websites to show their support for the Blues legend.

Mark Smith was one of many who left a message on the Mail’s Facebook page.

He said: “Trevor was my first footballing hero. I hope he makes a full recovery.”

Villa fan, William Fothergill also left a note of support. He said: “Good luck Trev, a true Midlands footballing legend.”

And Jason Peters added: “All the best in your road to recovery Trev. A true gentleman and a football legend.”

Francis is still the youngest player to play for the Blues first team, having made his debut in September 1970 at the age of 16 years and 139 days.

He stayed at the club until 1979 when Nottingham Forest manager Brian Clough etched him into football folklore by making him the first £1 million player.